Whip Care

Caring for your whip

Synthetic whips are very maintenance free and simple to look after. However, they are not indestructible and still need to be looked after correctly. Here are some tips for owners on how you can care for your whips and help them give you a lifetime of fun!

 

Storage

Whips can be stored laid flat or hung on something like a hook without problem. Most synthetic and leather whips will have a direction or "bias" in which it will prefer to curve, this is called the "natural curve". When coiling the whip for storage, coil it in line with this curve for least resistance and to maintain this bias. Many synthetic whips are waxed, usually in paraffin wax or some similar variation or formula. Avoid storing these whips in areas of excessive heat, as this will cause this wax to eventually break down and bleed out from inside the whip. If your whip is not waxed, very warm weather will not be a problem.

 

During use

Do not grab the whip and bend it around or apply excessive force to the thong, doing so can potentially cause damage or uneven wear to the whip's internal layers. Whips (especially waxed whips) can be quite stiff when they are new, just use the whip in a normal fashion and the whip will break in to the way you use it. Avoid using excessive force on the whip during this important period and avoid knots in the fall and cracker. Remove any knots the moment they are discovered. If the cracker cannot be untangled it should be replaced. Always crack your whip with a cracker properly attached, as the whip is designed to expel the force through the cracker. Using a whip without a cracker fitted can potentially cause excessive wear to the fall of the whip.

 

Hand plaited falls and tails

For whips with plaited falls, never use it against hard or abrasive surfaces and never store it in a way that will snag and damage the fibres. the Dyneema and Dacron material used to build these falls can be rapidly destroyed when it is used to strike hard or sharp surfaces. Plaited falls are not appropriate for performance routines that involve a significant amount of impact with the ground, twisted or detachable falls are more suitable for this.
Note that after some use black Dyneema falls will turn to a more grey/graphite colour.

 

Cleaning your whip

If the whip becomes soiled or dirty, clean the whip using a slightly damp lint free cloth. Gently rub the cloth over the areas without using excessive force. A small amount of soft detergent can be added if the whip is especially dirty. A waxed finish can make this process a little easier. Do not use an abrasive cloth or pad, it can damage the fibres.

 

Cracker care

Crackers will wear out with use over time and will eventually require replacement. Spare crackers can be ordered at the same time as your whip order, if desired, and custom made for that specific whip. If you make your own crackers, make them to have a similar diameter to the fall tip for plaited falls.
Dyneema crackers that have been hand tapered will develop some fluffing along the length which is perfectly normal and not a sign of damage.